Job Title: Childcare Center Lead Teacher

About Us:

Join our vibrant and nurturing Peoria Ave Preschool team dedicated to fostering the growth and development of young minds. We believe in creating a supportive and stimulating environment where children can learn, play, and thrive. As a leading childcare center, we are committed to providing top-notch care and education for the children in our community.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Teacher to join our team and play a key role in shaping the early childhood experiences of the children in our care. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in early childhood education, a genuine love for working with children, and the ability to create a positive and engaging learning environment.

Responsibilities:

1. Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum to support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of children.
2. Create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment that encourages exploration and creativity.
3. Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues to create a supportive community.
4. Conduct regular assessments of children's progress and communicate effectively with parents about their child's development.
5. Collaborate with team members to create a cohesive and dynamic program that meets the needs of all children.

Qualifications:

1. High school Diploma/GED
2. 6 months Previous experience working in a childcare setting.
3. Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate teaching methods.
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for working with children.

Benefits:

1. Competitive salary commensurate with experience and education.
2. Paid Vacation and sick time.
3. Professional development opportunities.
4. Supportive and collaborative work environment.

How to Apply:

If you are a dedicated and enthusiastic educator with a passion for early childhood education, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your resume.

Our childcare center is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

1. Assist in the creation of a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the physical, social, and emotional development of children

2. Perform duties as planned by the Director or Lead Teacher for the assigned classroom

3. Assist in implementing the curriculum planned by the Director or Lead Teacher

4. Interact with the children in a way which conveys respect and nurturing

5. Support the social and emotional development of children

6. Engage in active play with children; this will often mean getting down on the floor to interact with them

7. Provide activities and opportunities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving appropriate to the development levels of the children

8. Maintain accurate and appropriate records for children in the assigned classroom.

9. Attend to the personal hygiene of each child in your care, including changing diapers or soiled clothing and washing hands

10. Maintain a safe environment based on safety standards set by the Center and state guidelines

11. Help other staff in preparing meals for children as required following the CACFP guidelines

12. Assist in the cleaning and straightening of the childcare rooms

13. Work cooperatively and effectively as a team member by communicating and contributing information on a continuous basis

14. Assist in the development and facilitation of interactive parent and child literacy activities

15. Maintain open, friendly, and cooperative relationship with each child's family and encourage their involvement in the program

16. Continue professional development through attending workshops, conferences, and other staff development opportunities

17. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible

18. Perform other reasonable duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Director

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBLITIES

None

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written); ability to maintain emotional control under stress

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Ability to routinely lift children, move furniture in the classroom, and sustain long hours of active work

The aforementioned statements describe the general requirements for this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required. Other duties may be logically assigned as appropriate.

*Valid Fingerprint Clearance Card

*TB Test within last year

*Must be able to pass background check

*High School Diploma/ GED

*CPR/First Aid

*Food Handler

*6 Months Experience

*Paid Sick Time

*Paid Vacation

*Discounted Child Care